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Thursday, March 4, 2010

3/17: P.O.S. at Grog Shop

Last year, Minneapolis rapper P.O.S. released his third album, Never Better, a dark record that addresses many Americans’ frustrations. On the jarring opener, “Let It Rattle,” the MC asks, “Do you really think a president can represent you?” At a time when many people are overflowing with hope, P.O.S. is honest with his apprehension. “I’m really excited for Barack Obama to be president, but we’ve yet to see whose side he’s really on,” he says. “If he hops into his role and gives everybody universal healthcare, but continues to let corporate loopholes rape America, then he’s not necessarily on my team. I really hope it’s more than talk and really cool Shepard Fairey posters.” He exercises the same caution when it comes to mainstream audiences embracing hip-hop that isn’t centered on sex, drugs and guns. “People thrive on ignorant shit,” he says. “A lot of people don’t like thinking.” That doesn’t apply to the legions of underground fans who come to P.O.S. for his unfettered honesty in his lyrics. He plays the Grog Shop (2785 Euclid Hts. Blvd., Cleveland Hts., 216.321.5588). Dessa and Astonautalis open at 9 p.m. Tickets: $12. — Eddie Fleisher